St. Louis, MO (PRWEB) July 11, 2013
As a passionate freelance graphic designer and web designer, Michael A. Salario was thrilled to promote a recent article in GMA News regarding survival tips for freelance designers. He is enthusiastic about making creativity a career and pushing aspiring freelancers in the right direction. He believes designing for a living is one of the most rewarding jobs in this day and age, but he is also familiar with the challenges and obstacles professional designers face every day, simply in making enough income and staying motivated.
The article spotlights Jason Aiken, the community director at 99designs, an online platform for freelance designers. “Essentially, a freelancer is a small business owner. And so your business is you, and you’re responsible for everything – marketing, business development, fulfillment and execution. You’re taking a lot on your shoulders. Not everyone necessarily realizes that right away,” he said. The first piece of advice Aiken offers is to build a referral network. “You need to make sure that people understand who you are as a designer, what you bring,” he said. “You have to say, ‘Hey, you know, if you have people who could use my services, please pass me along.’ You have to constantly be marketing yourself.”
On the subject of networking, Michael A. Salario encourages aspiring freelancers to use the Internet to the best of their advantage. “The Internet is such a valuable tool for all kinds of freelancers,” he said. “There are multiple platforms in which you can market yourself, engage with a broader community and receive ample feedback.” He also advises freelancers to make something new every day to generate fresh designs and to stay motivated. “The best way to master something is to do it over and over again. Learning how to create and follow through with excellent design projects involves honing the craft. The more you create, the better you will become. I tell aspiring freelancers to create something every day, regardless of inspiration or perceived worth.”
The article also urges freelancers to stay up-to-date with industry trends. “You have to constantly stay in touch with what’s happening right now or you’re just going to be dated and out of touch,” said Aiken. The report notes that a big trend in web design in responsive design – which means the website is “constructed so that it automatically reorganizes itself to fit the user’s device, whether it’s a desktop, tablet or smartphone.” Salario also points out the need to get to know peers and competitors.
“I even encourage designers to get together offline, even though their websites facilitate virtual engagement,” he said. “This cultivates more authentic relationships and a more supportive network, making the community a more meaningful one.” Michael A. Salario believes participating in free-lancer meet-ups can lead to outstanding opportunities.
ABOUT:
Michael A. Salario is an accomplished freelance graphic and web designer based in St. Louis, Missouri. He has worked on an abundance of design projects for major businesses and noted charity organizations. He received a BA in Graphic Design in 2011 and enjoys coaching aspiring freelancers on how to work toward a successful freelance career. Outside of his graphic design interests, he enjoys camping and playing video games.